Pedro Pascal and Russell Tovey Declare: “Vers Is the Best”

In a recent interview for "Man About Town", actors Pedro Pascal and Russell Tovey sparked headlines and social media buzz by jointly declaring that being “vers” is the best approach to sex and relationships. The conversation, prompted by their interview promoting the queer drama "Plainclothes", evolved into a playful, yet meaningful, exchange on the themes of sexual flexibility, power, and queer shame in both personal and cinematic contexts .

During their discussion, Tovey—who stars as Andrew, a closeted queer man in "Plainclothes"—was quick to affirm his belief that versatility is not just a sexual preference but a philosophy of openness and adaptability. When Pascal teased, “He’s vers…,” Tovey responded with a grin, “Yeah, and so is Lucas. It’s the best way to be. Vers is the best.” Their banter underscored how the film and their own perspectives align around embracing fluidity rather than rigid roles .

"Plainclothes" delves into the cruising culture of 1990s New York. The film follows Lucas, a young, closeted police officer assigned to entrap men in cruising spots, and Andrew, played by Tovey, whose world is upended by their encounter. The film’s narrative explores the interplay of vulnerability, shame, and liberation—recurring themes in the actors’ interview .

Tovey, reflecting on his character and his own experiences, discussed how “inherent shame” is often embedded from a young age, especially for queer people growing up in less accepting times. “I like shame as a theme and how we can be highly functioning and full of shame,” Tovey shared. Pascal echoed the sentiment, observing, “How we basically are highly functioning and full of shame…” The actors agreed that the film’s nuanced depiction of shame and resilience offers an opportunity for audiences to see themselves reflected in complex, authentic ways .

Power dynamics are central to both the film’s plot and the actors’ conversation. As Tovey explained, the relationship between Andrew and Lucas disrupts both men’s established routines, “literally, metaphorically, and physically.” Pascal, in his characteristic style, turned the discussion to the theme of versatility, highlighting how the characters’ shifting roles mirror broader conversations about flexibility and mutual respect in queer relationships .

The interview also touched on the importance of positive sexual representation. Tovey noted that he was intentional about how safe sex was depicted in "Plainclothes", stating, “I wanted condoms to be visible.” He emphasized the importance of his character Andrew being clear and communicative with Lucas, presenting a model of consent and responsibility that he felt was lacking from his own early experiences. “I would have liked my first experiences to be with someone like that,” Tovey reflected, highlighting the value of healthy, affirming depictions of queer intimacy on screen .

The actors’ perspective on versatility was framed not just as a sexual identity but as an approach rooted in empathy, adaptability, and mutual pleasure. Their comments resonated with many in the LGBTQ+ community who see sexual roles not as fixed, but as part of a spectrum of possibilities. By openly discussing these topics, Pascal and Tovey are helping to destigmatize conversations about sexual preferences and encourage greater acceptance of diversity within queer relationships .

The interview has been widely circulated and discussed on social media, with many praising the actors for their openness and humor. The lighthearted moment in which Tovey invents a new drag name, “Syra-cutie,” after mispronouncing “Syracuse,” was celebrated as an example of queer joy and self-expression. “Syra-cutie? That’s your drag name,” Pascal laughed, to which Tovey replied, “That’s my drag name.” The playful exchange provided levity while simultaneously affirming the value of queer creativity and resilience .

Advocates for sexual health and LGBTQ+ representation have applauded the actors for foregrounding issues of consent, safe sex, and the fluidity of desire. By normalizing conversations about being “vers,” Pascal and Tovey contribute to a broader cultural shift that values authenticity and rejects shame. The actors’ comments align with ongoing efforts in queer media to diversify representations of sexuality and challenge harmful stereotypes about fixed or binary roles .

In a media landscape where LGBTQ+ stories have often been marginalized or sanitized, the candid, affirming nature of the interview stands out. For many viewers, seeing public figures like Pascal and Tovey model openness, respect, and flexibility is both validating and empowering.

As "Plainclothes" continues to screen internationally and the actors’ interview circulates, the impact of their words is being felt far beyond the cinema. Their shared affirmation that “vers is the best” is more than a soundbite—it’s a celebration of sexual diversity and an invitation for viewers to embrace complexity in themselves and others.

In a time when debates about identity and representation are ongoing, the willingness of high-profile actors to speak honestly about their experiences and beliefs can help foster greater understanding, acceptance, and joy within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.